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The Southend Christmas Light Switch On 2026 takes place on Saturday 14 November, with live entertainment, festive markets, family activities, a spectacular 6pm lights switch-on and seafront fireworks at 7.30pm. Discover the full programme and event details.

An overview of Essex’s bathing water quality reveals successes and challenges, highlighting beaches with Excellent and Good ratings, pollution risks from storm overflows, and opportunities for Blue Flag recognition and improved coastal management.

Southend Council refused an application for 2,000 homes, backed by MP Bayo Alaba. The campaign urges protecting Green Belt land and exploring brownfield sites, with ongoing challenges and calls for community involvement.

Four children from Leigh took part in the historic Sir David Amess Children’s Parliament debate in the House of Commons, promoting the voices of children with disabilities and inspiring future young leaders.

Campaigners secured a Tree Preservation Order for Chester, a 150-year-old London plane tree, but delays in footway improvements continue. Legal advice highlights council errors, while the fight to protect green heritage and improve safety goes on.

It’s a question local residents living and working in Shoeburyness ward now have the opportunity to help answer, thanks to the Government’s Pride in Place programme, which has awarded £20 million over the next 10 years to support improvements across the ward.

Southend-on-Sea will come together this November for its annual Remembrance Sunday Parade and Service on 8 November, followed by Armistice Day commemorations on 11 November. Residents, veterans and visitors are invited to honour the fallen and pay tribute to those who serve.

Southend’s Christmas in the City returns on Saturday 14 November, bringing festive markets, live entertainment and family fun to the High Street before the Christmas Lights Switch On at 6pm and a seafront fireworks display at 7.30pm.

Southend Council refused a major development on Bournes Green but the fight to protect the Green Belt continues. Residents are urged to understand proposals, voice concerns, and spread awareness about the lasting impact of such developments.

Rochford District is experiencing increased large-scale housing developments, prompting residents to form organised groups that use technology and evidence to engage with planning processes and influence decisions more effectively.